Liam Morgan: Down, But Not Out

Around 2pm Friday, April 13th Liam Morgan was riding his motorcycle down a four lane street in his hometown of Alameda, CA. While approaching an intersection he merged into the right lane to avoid a truck signaling to make a left hand turn. At the same time, another vehicle traveling the opposite direction entered the intersection to make a left hand turn across traffic. Proceeding to make the turn, the oncoming vehicle (whom’s vision was obstructed by the turning truck) entered the intersection and collided with Liam causing him to loose control of his bike. Liam was immediately ejected off his bike where he slid on the asphalt until he was stopped by a light post, breaking his left femur. Immediately, witnesses and the other driver ran to Liam’s aid and assisted him until the ambulance arrived. Liam was transported to a nearby hospital where he underwent a successful surgery to reset his leg with several pins.

I just got back from the hospital where I spent the morning with Liam and his family. The first thing I saw when I got there was Liam walking unassisted from his wheelchair into his room and to bed. The nurses along with myself were amazed with his quick progress and eagerness to walk. In the aftermath of the accident, everyone was shaken by the previous day’s events, yet spirits were high. The first thing Liam asked me was when we would get back to filming again, as we were in the works of a record breaking video that was set to be shot next week. Liam is expected to make a full recovery and be back on a skateboard early this summer. As a team rider for Comet, Caliber, and Volante, Liam is family to us and we want to make sure he is supported in any way we can to ensure a quick and full recovery.

As downhill skaters, we’re constantly putting ourselves in dangerous situations. The road is our playground, and as much as we’d like to think we have a situation handled, there’s always an element that is beyond our control. Cars pose a big danger and post a threat to us EVERY SINGLE TIME we skate on open roads. Let us not forget that we are but tuna swimming in a sea of sharks. We are the target and all it takes is one time—one laps in concentration on a single blind intersection and your whole world can turn upside down. Liam was lucky yesterday that he came out with only a broken leg. Even though he was on a motorcycle, and not a skateboard, we share the same risks. Next time you jump on your board take time to make sure you have a spotter around blind corners. Make sure the road is clear and that traffic isn’t too heavy. We take risks—albeit calculated ones—but there’s always going to be unseen dangers lurking around every corner. So for your mothers sake, ride hard, ride fast, but most importantly, ride SAFE. Liam sends his appreciation and thanks to all for the well wishes. Down, but not out.